Christ-centered thoughts and studies

Devotional: ‘How to Have a Good Day’ pt 1

Perhaps some of you are familiar with the saying – ‘Today is a Good Day to Have a Good Day.’ It should always be our goal to have a good day – every day. Can we? Consider Paul’s advice on this subject-

Colossians 3:12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. NIV

Consider some of the principles Paul gives us for having a good day –

Clothe yourselves with Christlike character

“…clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience…” Each of these virtues is a part of the character of Christ. It is Christlike to be kind and compassionate. It is Christlike to be gentle and patient. It is Christlike to think less of ourselves and more of others.

Be willing to forgive, even as you have been forgiven

Paul writes – “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” In Matthew 18 Jesus told a parable about a man who had been forgiven, yet wouldn’t forgive. At the end of the story Jesus said that this unforgiving man would be turned over to the tormentors. [1] A sure way to have a bad day is to harbor hatred and bitterness. However, a sure way to have a good way is to be clothed with kindness and forgiveness.

Love

“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” (vs 14) Every good day will be a day that is filled with Christlike love.

As you can see, I’ve run out of space for today, so join me again tomorrow as we continue this important study. God bless you my brethren and have a good day!